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We all know the difference a stylish statement necklace or chunky gold hoop earrings can make in elevating your everyday look. But perhaps what your collection is missing isn’t in the form of a more traditional accessory — it could be a hair barrette.
Whether you’re keeping up with the latest international runways or checking out the biggest street style trends, hair barrettes for adults are popping up everywhere. After being popularized in the 1980s and taking the early 2000s by storm (hello, butterfly clips), the barrette is back in a reimagined and contemporary way with styles, shapes, and sizes to match any hair type and aesthetic you desire.
“The most fashionable people I see will throw on something special and one-of-a-kind in their hair,” said Joe Van O, stylist and creative director of Elena Velez. “That just empowers the look and is really a reflection of their core personal style.”
From the studded style seen in Tom Ford’s spring 2022 collection to the classic bow adorning the Chanel Fall 2019 runway, the barrette is as versatile as it is functional. No matter if you’re looking to embellish a half-up hairstyle or simply pin back curtain bangs, a cute barrette can take you from day to night and can easily pair with the chunky earrings or minimalist jewelry already in your rotation. Not only that, they’re made for every kind of hair type and cut. Try styling your short bob ornamented with metal hair barrettes for a sultry look, or throw up loose curls in a sleek French barrette for a timeless feel.
With a seemingly unlimited array of styles on the market, it can be hard to decide what’s right for you, which is why we have tapped experts and their product picks to compile this guide of all the best hair clips, including cute hair barrettes for thick hair and thin hair, that will make you stand out this season.
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Top Hair Barrettes of 2024
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Hotop Snap Hair Barrettes
Colorway: Silver and gold
Material: Metal
Best for: Any hair type
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Remember hair barrettes from your youth? If you decorated your hair with these every day clips every morning before school, rest assured that you can carry them into the new year. Whether you’re heading into work or a heated workout class, these metal barrettes keep hair in place, and are a cute way to elevate and simple bun or ponytail. Plus, you get 50 clips for only $8 a pack.
What testers say: “These are really good hair clips! They clamp well, are easy to handle, and they unclamp without snagging hair. Good on gray/silver hair.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $7.99
Jennifer Behr Joelle Barrette
Colorway: Silver
Material: Rhodium and Swarovski crystals
Best for: Any hair type
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
MyTheresa Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$126 $298 58% off
$207 $297 30% off
Add a touch of sparkle to the fanciest of ‘fits with this French-style hair clip from Jennifer Behr. Known for their luxurious handmade hair accessories, Jennifer Behr designed this Swarovski crystal-adorned hair barrette as a statement piece for your next big event — whether you’re the bride or you’re slipping on your best wedding guest dress. A steel clip closure meets round and oval-cut crystals in this hair clip barrette, sure to catch the light from any angle. And it’s versatile, too — pin both horizontally or vertically to switch up your look.
Price upon publish date of this article: $126
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Balmain Hair Couture Riviera Large Leather Barrette
Material: Leather, 18-karat gold plating
Best for: Any hair type
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Crafted with leather you’d usually only see on the best designer handbags, Balmain’s Riviera Barrette is an investment piece that’ll earn you so many compliments. The cognac tone jibes with any hair color, and it’s substantial enough to hold fine hair in a low ponytail. This piece is limited-edition, so snap it up before it sells out.
Price upon publish date of this article: $290
France Luxe Rectangle Volume Barrette
Colorway: White
Material: Cellulose acetate
Best for: Thick hair
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
For all the thick hair girlies out there, don’t count yourself out. France Luxe has you covered with various styles and colors of barrettes perfect for even the thickest hair. This rectangular clip boasts a milky color finished with a polished sheen. Stay classic with white or black, or add color to your up-do with their brighter, patterned styles.
What testers say: “I have massively thick hair and have spent loads of money for barrettes advertised for thick hair which didn’t come close to holding my mane. I was hesitant to try France Luxe because of that and because I think $22 is a lot of money for a barrette. But today I am back to buy another. This barrette holds my hair (from the sides, not in a ponytail which will never happen), and the mechanism is strong and sturdy, so it does not pop open.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Gucci GG Barrette
Colorway: Brown
Material: Resin/glass and crystal
Best for: Any hair type
If you’re ready to splurge on a refined hair accessory, make it this cute hair barrette from Gucci. The GG Barrette clip is decorated with the house’s signature double-Gs in crystal that rests in a resin heart shape across the clip bar. Wear atop curly braids to really tie in the look, or pair with a silk slip dress for added sophistication.
What testers say: “Early bday gift to me and in love. Love packaging. Gives it that extra luxurious glam hair accessory.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $350
Emi Jay Popstar Clip Set
Colorway: Crème Brûlée, Amour Noir, Amour Rouge, and three others
Material: Acetate and crystals
Best for: Any hair type
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Sometimes, less isn’t more. Ditch the solid neutrals and go for a fun pattern to add life to your hair for a fancy occasion. These mini clips are a cute addition to your getting-ready rotation, keeping stray strands away from your makeup without creasing your ‘do. With three styles available — pink, red, black, stardust, and more — you’ll never run out of options.
What testers say: “The cutest clips and also very useful! doesn’t crease my hair but does the job of keeping my hair out of my face while doing skincare or makeup.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $20
Cptots Snap Hair Barrettes
Colorway: Multicolor and 9 others
Material: Metal
Best for: Fine hair
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
If you’re searching for an everyday barrette to hold fine hair, look no further than these small hair barrettes from Cptots. Known for their versatile and functional hair accessories, Cptots’ specially designed barrettes are equipped with an extra small clasp to ensure the clip lays flat against your hair.
What testers say: “These hair clips have been a lifesaver as my previous ones were showing signs of wear and tear. The variety of colors in the pack is a delightful touch, adding a fun and versatile element to my hairstyling routine. I appreciate that these clips don’t snag or get caught in my hair, making them gentle and hassle-free to use. Their durability and practicality have led me to keep a few in my car for those unexpected moments when I need a quick and reliable solution for my hair.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $6.99
Lele Sadoughi x SJP Jet Grosgrain Beaded Bow Barrette
Colorway: Jet
Material: Metal and crystal accents
Best for: Any hair type
Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Add a feminine touch to your ‘do with a traditional bow that’s adorned with some extra dazzle. This pick from the Lele Sadoughi x SJP collaboration is the accessory you need to add to your rotation this year. It’s ideal for wearing alone or pairing with other clips from this list.
Price upon publish date of this article: $65
Miu Miu Patent Leather Hair Clip
Colorway: Astral blue, black, white, red, and four other colors
Material: Leather with metal lettering
Best for: Any hair type
Miu Miu Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
The search for the perfect everyday barrette is over with this large hair clip from Miu Miu. It comes in eight colors that offer a sleek and sophisticated detail to any hairstyle. The clip is wrapped in leather and decorated with gold lettering that features the brand’s iconic logo. Pop them in a fresh blow out or add them as accents to a ponytail — even use them to keep strands out of your face.
Price upon publish date of this article: $420
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Alexandre De Paris Pearly Side Barrette
Colorway: Black
Material: Acetate, brass, and faux pearls
Best for: Fine to thick hair
Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Barrettes don’t always have to be functional. Play around with shapes, sizes, and colors to add life to any hairstyle. This pearl-studded clip is perfect for pinning between loose curls or around a pony for an extra pop of elegance. Plus, it’s easy to use thanks to its Tige boule closure.
Price upon publish date of this article: $202
Chanel Hair Clip
Colorway: Resin and metal
Material: Multicolor with gold
Best for: Any hair type
Chanel Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Few brands do luxury hair barrettes as well as Chanel. Recognized by their timeless bow style, this resin clip is another contemporary take on the traditional designer look. The gold clip adds a touch of femininity while the thick, animated Chanel logo hints towards luxury. Take inspo from the runway and add this dressy hair barrette to a pulled-back pony style that works with any length and hair type.
Price upon publish date of this article: $825
Lelet NY Crystal Bow Barrette
Colorway: Crystal
Material: Metal and crystal accents
Best for: Any hair type
Looking to spice up your next girls’ night out ‘fit? This statement bow barrette will be your new go-to. Offered in a crystalized bow shape that sits on top of a simple clip, it’s perfect for accenting a braid or stacking in an updo — nestle them into waves after using a dry texture spray.
Price upon publish date of this article: $148
The Different Types of Hair Barrettes
- French hair barrettes: Instantly recognizable, the French barrette is a classic silhouette that is ideal for even the thickest hair and is made to hold styles in place for any occasion. Classified by a long rectangular base, this barrette features a tension bar that secures by two clips, holding your hair snugly in between. Perfect for half-up-half-down styles, you can also stick an oversized one in a low pony for a polished feel.
- Fancy hair barrettes: Experiment with embellishments and texture for your next big event, and snag a barrette that takes your look to the next level. “People who are into a more feminine look can go for the pearls and the bows and the ribbon, all these hyper-girly accents,” says Van O. Play up your personal style and snag everything from silk and diamond-encrusted clips to charmed barrettes to take your individuality from your outfit into your hair.
- Plastic hair barrettes: Functional and accessible, plastic barrettes are perhaps most synonymous with the Y2K trends we see everywhere today. From butterfly clips to multicolored bows, they are usually smaller and slimmer in size, making them great for thinner hair or for adorning thicker styles.
- Classic metal hair barrettes: You can never go wrong collecting a variety of metal barrettes. “If you want a more a more streamlined or corporate look, think all metal neutral tones like black, tan, and brown,” suggests Van O. Generally seen in the form of small, triangular clips, they’re extremely versatile for everyday wear, yet customizable enough for stacking and layering to add a bit of edge to your hairstyle.
Cute Hair Barrettes Inspiration
With oversized silhouettes and statement pieces regaining popularity on social media and the runways, it’s no surprise that hair barrettes trend is still going strong. In 2023, many of the year’s most memorable fashion moments have referenced the accessory paired with slicked-back hairstyles, bubble shades, and equally chunky jewelry. Expect to see the same trends make their way into 2024 — frequently styled for aesthetic rather than purely functional purposes — barrettes are adored from the streets to the runway to the red carpet.
And much like fashion houses, celebrities and creators are also showcasing the hair trend. Adrienne Bailon opted for pinned-back styles at awards shows, while others like Gigi Hadid rocked an embellished Prada French barrette atop a high pony for the 2021 Met Gala. You can also take cues from street style trends of slicked back hair and unexpected updos — each of these looks bode well for accessorizing with barrettes.
While barrettes are designed for hair, their versatility isn’t limited to just that. Another on-trend way to wear them is as an accessory to your clothing and everyday handbags. “I love using charm barrettes when styling shoots because they literally will clip on any piece of clothing in ways that move around the body. You can even clip them on your shoulder bag or belt,” said Van O. “It’s a really cool way to utilize pieces in different ways.
Below, draw inspiration for how to wear your new hair barrettes for any occasion and season.
Go below the bun
Adding a barrette under an everyday bun is one of the simplest ways to incorporate the hair clip trend. It’s an excellent way to hold flyaways in place with little effort, and it spices up a minimal hairstyle when you’re craving a change. And the bigger the barrette, the more attention it gets. Opt for larger-sized picks when accessorizing an under-the-bun look — tiny, sleek clips tend to get lost in your hair and won’t be noticeable.
Try heavy metals
This year, ditch the notion that barrettes only serve to keep hairs in place. Another idea we’re breaking up with? That your hair accessories need to be toned down. Instead, shop for cute hair barrettes that help create a unique look that you can make your signature design. Create fun and flirty patterns that catch the eye. Move over statement necklaces, hair barrettes are here for all the attention.
Take a bow
Classic bows also influence modern hair barrettes. One brand that coined the trend is Chanel — take the above photo from 1980, for example. Bows have been a long-time hair staple that isn’t going anywhere. Now, you can pick up a bow from Chanel for your collection to create a chic and feminine style that suits all occasions. But it’s important to note that you don’t have to tie them to your strands physically; instead, grab a hair barrette. The clip style makes it easy to snap into your hair and secure it.
Wear them as jewelry
Fashion tastemakers are also on board with adding more flair to their outfit by using over-the-top barrettes as hair jewelry. Need some inspiration? Fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni donned a gleaming large hair clip from Schiaparelli on top of a low bun. You can also select statement earrings to complement your hair piece for a cohesive detail.
Make your ‘do designer
Designer hair barrettes have recently resurged due to luxury brands featuring them as an accessory on runways. Fendi, Prada, Balmain, Versace, and more fashion houses have offered their takes on classic hair clips by adding luxurious materials like lambskin, leather, resin, and even crystals to the once simple designs.
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Meet the Expert
Joe Van O is a stylist, fashion director, and creative consultant living in New York City. He has worked with names like Elena Velez, DKNY, Nike, Calvin Klein, and Equinox, styling models, designers, and celebrities in everything from hair barrettes to cocktail dresses.
Meet the Author
Anika Ljung is a contributing writer for WWD where she writes stories on the latest fashion and accessory trends, keeping a close eye on both the runway and the zeitgeist to inform her pieces. Based in New York City, her work has appeared in V Magazine, V MAN, CR Fashion Book, and Brides, among others, and she is an assistant stylist for various independent creatives around the city. For this story on the cutest hair barrettes, Ljung interviewed a stylist and combed through hair barrette options to select the best for different hair types and aesthetics.
Taylor Lane is a WWD and Footwear News contributing freelance beauty and fashion shopping writer based in Charleston, South Carolina. The former New Yorker previously held on-staff shopping writer roles at Yahoo Life and Dotdash Meredith. Lane’s bylines have appeared in publications like InStyle, Forbes Vetted, Women’s Health, and more. Lane has several years of editorial experience covering beauty and fashion, reporting on everything from stylish and functional sneakers to the latest and greatest beauty products. Lane updated this story with more hair barrette trend details and new product releases to wear the trend in 2024 with effortlessly chic style.
